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Sheep Gate

Locations
Modern Location Jerusalem, Israel
Coordinates 31.7817, 35.2345

Geographical Setting

An ancient entrance to the northern wall of Jerusalem, identified in biblical texts as the Sheep Gate.

What is the meaning of Sheep Gate in the Bible?

One of the gates of Jerusalem, likely situated near the northeast corner. It is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:1 and 32, as well as 12:39.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying the Sheep Gate helps readers visualize the specific route Nehemiah took during the reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls and understand the logistical organization of the labor forces described in the text.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Sheep Gate (located near modern Jerusalem, Israel) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Sheep Gate in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Sheep Gate clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned: Nehemiah 3:1

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Sheep Gate." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/sheep-gate/
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